Abbey knows the recipe for culinary success

The gold medal, which makes Abbey the best cookery apprentice in the country, added to her Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Salute to Excellence Cookery Award win in 2021 and her first place at the National Apprentice Competition Culinary Challenge in 2022.

"Winning these awards is somewhat overwhelming, but I'm grateful, particularly as I work so hard for them," Abbey said.

The WorldSkills Australia National event saw Abbey compete against other apprentice chefs from across the country for four hours a day over three days, demonstrating her cookery skills to make various dishes.

The competition required her to use her kitchen operations knowledge and skills to prepare food and menu items, testing her ability with unexpected challenges.

"I was nervous, but I had prepared well in the months leading up to the competition. When I started cooking, I knew I would be okay – even when there were mystery components for each recipe."

Her practice paid off, with her gold medal win allowing her the opportunity to earn a place in the National WorldSkills team and represent Australia in Lyon, France, in 2024. 

"At the awards night, I thought I'd get a silver or a bronze, but when they said my name for the gold, I was like, 'Oh, my God,' I didn't even know what to think, and I started crying. When the medal went around my neck, I could feel how heavy it was, and it all sank in."

"I can't wait for the next steps on the road to Lyon, representing Australia, doing what I love," she said.

The apprentice chef from The Star on the Gold Coast developed her love for cooking at just ten years old when she helped her father, who is also a chef, in the family business's kitchen.

"Helping Dad cater events, I watched how food brings people together. Watching customers enjoy what we cooked launched my fascination for creating cuisine and inspired me to become a chef," said Abbey.

Determined to become a chef, Abbey joined The Star Culinary Institute apprenticeship program, getting on-the-job training and opportunities at The Star Gold Coast.

"I cook alongside renowned chefs at The Star and learn different cuisines, ways of doing things and constantly refining my craft, which keeps me motivated."

Training blocks at TAFE Queensland's South Bank campus complement her full-time apprenticeship, where she earned a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (SIT30821) and the confidence and skills to compete in culinary competitions.

"When I first started competing, it was overwhelming, but now I can compete. I am confident I can use the different cooking techniques I gained from my TAFE Queensland training."

Abbey's dream is to travel, work in kitchens overseas, and learn more about different cuisines and cooking techniques before returning to Australia and inspiring the next generation of chefs.

"My training, competing and work experience have helped me grow as a chef and person. I've learned different skills and techniques that I wouldn't have otherwise had the opportunity to learn," she said.

"Each competition has introduced me to suppliers, other up-and-coming cooks, and many industry people I've connected with that will be useful for my career in the future."

"I want to get as much experience as possible while I'm young, and then I'd love to teach and help people turn their passion for cooking into their profession."

Despite being crowned one of the best young cooks in Australia, Abbey still helps in her father's restaurant on weekends, learning more about cooking while making wood-fired pizzas.

"Cooking has given me so many experiences and opportunities, and my dad taught me to be humble because there's always more I can learn," concluded Abbey.